Open data is data that can be freely used, modified and shared by anyone, anywhere, for any purpose. It is about making data held by public bodies available and easily accessible online for reuse and redistribution. As public bodies have progressed in areas like eGovernment and data analytics, the potential of data and, in particular, open data to help deliver economic, social and democratic benefits has become clear.

Daithi will work with other members of the Board to provide advice on international best practice in the area of open data, to help improve the capability of public bodies in Ireland in implementing open data, and to consider opportunities to maximise the value of public sector data and information for long-term economic, social and democratic benefits.

Daithi said: “I am delighted to be a member of this new Board. The Government’s decision to set up this interdisciplinary group demonstrates a commitment to robust governance in this exciting and promising area. In working in the CREATe research centre for copyright and new business models in the creative economy, and in my recent work on the UK Coalition government’s approach to information technology law, I have seen how important this field is.”